CLIAMS:We Claim:

1. A referral method implementable in a telecommunication system, said method comprising the steps of:
(a) receiving, via an interactive voice response (IVR) system or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or a short message service centre (SMSC) or a data bearer, a subscriber identity module number set from a referring subscriber and storing the same in a database as temporary referred subscriber set;
(b) sending, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a message to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set, the message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set;
(c) receiving, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a referral set optionally along with corresponding context from the referring subscriber and storing the same;
(d) monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set; and
(e) automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, via the short message service centre (SMSC) or the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the data bearer, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step of receiving the referral set from the referring subscriber includes a step of receiving the referral set along with at least one subscriber identity module number.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a step of sending, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a message to each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set seeking approval for divulging knowledge about them to the referring subscriber.

4. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the message seeking approval for divulging knowledge and the message seeking confirmation are sent together.

5. The method as claimed in claim 3, further comprising divulging knowledge about the referred subscriber to the referring subscriber in response to receiving an approval from the referred subscriber.

6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step of automatically sending a referral taken from the referral set to referred subscriber includes a sub-step of automatically removing a referral based on a past activity of the referred subscriber.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising selecting one of the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer for automatically sending the referral message.

8. A referral method implementable in a telecommunication system, said method comprising the steps of:
(a) receiving, via an interactive voice response (IVR) system or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or a short message service centre (SMSC) or a data bearer, a subscriber identity module number set from a referring subscriber and storing the same in a database as temporary referred subscriber set;
(b) sending, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a message to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set, the message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set;
(c) monitoring outcome of searches, transactions and consumptions performed by the referring subscriber and generating a referral set;
(d) monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set; and
(e) automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set.

9. The method as claimed in claim 8 further comprising selecting one of the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer for automatically sending the referral message.

10. A referral system implementable in a telecommunication system, said implementation system comprising:
an transceiver means configured to receive from a referring subscriber a subscriber identity module number set and a referral set optionally along with corresponding context from the referring subscriber;
a storage means being in operational interconnection with the input means for temporarily storing the received subscriber identity module number set as a temporary referred subscriber set, the storage means being further configured to store a referral set;
a processing means configured to send to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set a message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set; and
a monitoring device being in operational interconnection with the storage means for monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set;
the processor being in operational interconnection with the monitoring device, the storage means and the transceiver means for automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set.

11. The referral system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the transceiver means for sending the referral message to the referred subscriber includes an interactive voice response (IVR) system or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer and the processor is configured to automatically selecting one among them.
,TagSPECI:Field of the Invention:
The invention relates to the area of providing referrals to a user of a telephone device via a telephony system.

Background of the Invention:
The following background discussion includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

In an effort to extend market reach and effectiveness, merchants today are looking beyond traditional media (i.e. print ads, TV, Radio) for delivering to product details to the user. Merchants today are evaluating emerging interactive communication channels such as provided by the internet, interactive cable television, (for example, Comcast local auto shopping), and a growing array of mobile devices (for example, web enabled cell phones, hand-held computers, internet connected Global Positioning Service (GPS) navigation in autos, etc.) for delivering product details to the user. Already, a number of systems and business models have been designed to exploit and capitalize on these channels, either as discreet information dissemination services, or as merchant directory services or a hybrid combination thereof.

In a telephone system (including a mobile telephony system), the most common approach for delivering product details to the user has been to inform the user of the same over a call, commonly referred to as Out Bound Dialer (OBD), wherein users receive promotional call and press dual tone multi frequency (DTMF) digit to opt-in. In the past, systems have also been developed so as to deliver to the telephone device (having appropriate capabilities) a text message, either in the form of a short message service (SMS) or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) message. Also, systems have been developed for sending promotional material as tagging messages (footer messages), wherein the promotional material is appended to the Subscription, Pre-renewal, Renewal and de-activation messages.

However, in the recent past, regulatory authorities have imposed restriction on the way product details can be communicated to the user over such telephone systems. More particularly, as per the current regulatory norms in some of the countries such as India, the Operator needs to do Do-Not-Disturb (DND) filtering on subscriber base before any performing any promotion activity. The filtering limits the subscriber base to whom the promotional message can be sent. In addition, the user has to provide double consents to take the service through these channels and most of the users do not send confirmation once prompted for the second consent.

When adopting the tagging message, the length of the tagging message is a huge constraint and many a times, it has been found to be difficult to convey complete details of the product/service using a single tagging message.

Due to these restrictions, the telephone service provider (or shortly the Operator) is not able to reach out to the end customer as effectively as they used to do earlier. Considering a scenario wherein the Operator is launching a new service (for example a new Value Added Service or VAS), the Operator is not in a position to deliver the service details to the user in an effective manner. This can therefore, result in a scenario wherein the new service is not subscribed or consumed, because of customer un-awareness and can result in a dip in Operator’s revenue.

Due to the limited means of promotions, there is a direct impact on operator revenue and service uptake. Need to find out promotional means that are beyond control of regulatory authorities, that are interesting and advantageous for end customers, and that presents a win-win for both operator and subscriber.

Since the problem is faced only in the telephone based system, and that too only because of stringent rules prescribed by the regulatory authorities, no solution to counter to the same is available to the best of the Inventor’s understanding.

Object of the Invention:
Thus it is an object of the invention to provide a method to address the problem as indicated above.

Summary of the Invention:
Accordingly, the present invention provides a referral method implementable in a telecommunication system, said method comprising the steps of:
receiving, via an interactive voice response (IVR) system or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or a short message service centre (SMSC) or a data bearer, a subscriber identity module number set from a referring subscriber and storing the same in a database as temporary referred subscriber set;
sending, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a message to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set, the message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set;
receiving, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a referral set optionally along with corresponding context from the referring subscriber and storing the same;
monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set; and
automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, via the short message service centre (SMSC) or the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the data bearer, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set.

In an embodiment, the present invention further provides a referral method implementable in a telecommunication system, said method comprising the steps of:
receiving, via an interactive voice response (IVR) system or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or a short message service centre (SMSC) or a data bearer, a subscriber identity module number set from a referring subscriber and storing the same in a database as temporary referred subscriber set;
sending, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a message to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set, the message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set;
monitoring outcome of searches, transactions and consumptions performed by the referring subscriber and generating a referral set;
monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set; and
automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, via a short message service centre (SMSC) or the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the data bearer, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention further provides a referral system implementable in a telecommunication system, said implementation system comprising:
an transceiver means configured to receive from a referring subscriber a subscriber identity module number set and a referral set optionally along with corresponding context from the referring subscriber;
a storage means being in operational interconnection with the input means for temporarily storing the received subscriber identity module number set as a temporary referred subscriber set, the storage means being further configured to store a referral set;
a processing means configured to send to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set a message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set; and
a monitoring device being in operational interconnection with the storage means for monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set;
the processor being in operational interconnection with the monitoring device, the storage means and the transceiver means for automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set.

To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of Figures:
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
Figure 1 shows flow chart corresponding to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 shows a flow chart corresponding to a second embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 shows the overall system configuration in which the invention is implemented;
Figure 4 shows a detailed internal construction of the referral device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 5 shows a detailed internal construction of the referral device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

Detailed Description:
For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

As stated in the background section, there is an imminent need to provide to methods that can be adopted by telephone service provider (or shortly the Operator) for delivering product / service details to the user, wherein the products/services may be either made available by the telephone service provider themselves or by a third party (such as a merchant).

Accordingly, the present invention provides for a referral method implementable in a telecommunication system that allows end customers to popularize the products / services themselves, minimum involvement of operator required to promote the product / service. It will also reduce costs of service promotion by the operator. In the envisaged referral method, a particular subscriber (referring subscriber) is able to send a referral message to a subscriber set (referred subscriber set), thereby referring a particular product/ service.

Referring to figure 1, the present invention provides a referral method (10) implementable in a telecommunication system, said method comprising the steps of:
• receiving, via an interactive voice response (IVR) system or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or a short message service centre (SMSC) or a data bearer, a subscriber identity module number set from a referring subscriber and storing the same in a database as temporary referred subscriber set (Step 12);
• sending, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a message to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set, the message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set (Step 14);
• receiving, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a referral set optionally along with corresponding context from the referring subscriber and storing the same (Step 16);
• monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set (Step 18); and
• automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, via a short message service centre (SMSC) or the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the data bearer, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set (Step 20).

In an embodiment of the present invention, the step of receiving the referral set from the referring subscriber (Step 16) includes a step of receiving the referral set along with at least one subscriber identity module number (Step 22).

In another embodiment, the present invention further comprises a step of sending, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a message to each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set seeking approval for divulging knowledge about them to the referring subscriber (Step 24).

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the message seeking approval for divulging knowledge and the message seeking confirmation are sent together.

In still another embodiment, the present invention further comprises divulging knowledge about the referred subscriber to the referring subscriber in response to receiving an approval from the referred subscriber (Step 26).

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the step of automatically sending a referral taken from the referral set to referred subscriber (Step 20) includes a sub-step of automatically removing a referral based on a past activity of the referred subscriber (Step 28).

In a furthermore embodiment, the present invention further comprises selecting one of the short message service centre (SMSC) or the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the data bearer for automatically sending the referral message (Step 30).

Referring to figure 2, the present invention further provides a referral method (S100) implementable in a telecommunication system, said method comprising the steps of:
• receiving, via an interactive voice response (IVR) system or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or a short message service centre (SMSC) or a data bearer, a subscriber identity module number set from a referring subscriber and storing the same in a database as temporary referred subscriber set (Step 102);
• sending, via the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the short message service centre (SMSC) or the data bearer, a message to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set, the message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set (Step 104);
• monitoring outcome of searches, transactions and consumptions performed by the referring subscriber and generating a referral set (Step 106);
• monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set (Step 108); and
• automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, via a short message service centre (SMSC) or the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the data bearer, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set (Step 110).

In an embodiment, the present invention further comprises selecting one of the short message service centre (SMSC) or the interactive voice response (IVR) system or the unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or the data bearer for automatically sending the referral message (Step 112).

Referring to figure 3, the overall system (200) configuration in which the method of the present invention can be implemented is shown wherein the system comprises a first subscriber (202) and a second subscriber (204). The system may contain many more subscriber, but the same is not illustrated in figure 3 for the purposes of simplicity. The said subscribers (202 and 204) are operatively connected to the referral device (208) via a suitable access interface (206). Without wanting to be restricted to the demonstration, it can be observed that figure 3 illustrates the access interface as being any of IVR/USSD/SMSC/data bearer or a combination thereof. The referral device (208) may be further connected to one or more product/service providing entities (210 and 212). While figure 3 demonstrates VAS Node 1 (210) and VAS Node 2 (212), the system can comprise of one or more such entities. Additionally, the product/service providing entities need not be VAS nodes can be any other entity as is well known in the art.

Referring to figure 4, the present invention additionally provides a referral device (300) implementable in a telecommunication system, said referral device comprising:
an transceiver means (302) configured to receive from a referring subscriber a subscriber identity module number set and a referral set optionally along with corresponding context from the referring subscriber;
a storage means (304) being in operational interconnection with the input means for temporarily storing the received subscriber identity module number set as a temporary referred subscriber set, the storage means being further configured to store a referral set;
a processing means (306) configured to send to each subscriber identity module number of the temporary referred subscriber set a message seeking confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set; and
a monitoring device (308) being in operational interconnection with the storage means for monitoring searches performed by each subscriber identity module number of the permanent referred subscriber set;
the processor (306) being in operational interconnection with the monitoring device, the storage means and the transceiver means for automatically sending to the referred subscriber set, a referral message taken from the referral set, if the search matches with a referral message or a context of a referral message contained in the referral set.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the transceiver means for sending the referral message to the referred subscriber includes a short message service centre (SMSC); an interactive voice response (IVR) system or an unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) gateway or a data bearer and the processor is configured to automatically selecting one among them.

Referring to figure 5, yet another typical hardware configuration of the referral device in the form of a computer system 400 is shown. The computer system 400 can include a set of instructions that can be executed to cause the computer system 400 to perform any one or more of the methods disclosed. The computer system 400 may operate as a standalone device or may be connected, e.g., using a network, to other computer systems or peripheral devices.

In a networked deployment, the computer system 400 may operate in the capacity of a server or as a client user computer in a server-client user network environment, or as a peer computer system in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The computer system 400 can also be implemented as or incorporated into various devices, such as a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile device, a palmtop computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a communications device, a wireless telephone, a land-line telephone, a control system, a camera, a scanner, a facsimile machine, a printer, a pager, a personal trusted device, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any other machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while a single computer system 400 is illustrated, the term "system" shall also be taken to include any collection of systems or sub-systems that individually or jointly execute a set, or multiple sets, of instructions to perform one or more computer functions.

The computer system 400 may include a processor 402, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both. The processor 402 may be a component in a variety of systems. For example, the processor 402 may be part of a standard personal computer or a workstation. The processor 402 may be one or more general processors, digital signal processors, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays, servers, networks, digital circuits, analog circuits, combinations thereof, or other now known or later developed devices for analysing and processing data The processor 402 may implement a software program, such as code generated manually (i.e., programmed).

The computer system 400 may include a memory 404, such as a memory 404 that can communicate via a bus 408. The memory 404 may be a main memory, a static memory, or a dynamic memory. The memory 404 may include, but is not limited to computer readable storage media such as various types of volatile and non-volatile storage media, including but not limited to random access memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable read-only memory, flash memory, magnetic tape or disk, optical media and the like. In one example, the memory 404 includes a cache or random access memory for the processor 402. In alternative examples, the memory 404 is separate from the processor 402, such as a cache memory of a processor, the system memory, or other memory. The memory 404 may be an external storage device or database for storing data. Examples include a hard drive, compact disc ("CD"), digital video disc ("DVD"), memory card, memory stick, floppy disc, universal serial bus ("USB") memory device, or any other device operative to store data. The memory 404 is operable to store instructions executable by the processor 402. The functions, acts or tasks illustrated in the figures or described may be performed by the programmed processor 402 executing the instructions stored in the memory 404. The functions, acts or tasks are independent of the particular type of instructions set, storage media, processor or processing strategy and may be performed by software, hardware, integrated circuits, firm-ware, micro-code and the like, operating alone or in combination. Likewise, processing strategies may include multiprocessing, multitasking, parallel processing and the like.

As shown, the computer system 400 may or may not further include a display unit 410, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flat panel display, a solid state display, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a projector, a printer or other now known or later developed display device for outputting determined information. The display 410 may act as an interface for the user to see the functioning of the processor 402, or specifically as an interface with the software stored in the memory 404 or in the drive unit 416.

Additionally, the computer system 400 may include an input device 412 configured to allow a user to interact with any of the components of system 400. The input device 412 may be a number pad, a keyboard, or a cursor control device, such as a mouse, or a joystick, touch screen display, remote control or any other device operative to interact with the computer system 400.

The computer system 400 may also include a disk or optical drive unit 416. The disk drive unit 416 may include a computer-readable medium 422 in which one or more sets of instructions 424, e.g. software, can be embedded. Further, the instructions 424 may embody one or more of the methods or logic as described. In a particular example, the instructions 424 may reside completely, or at least partially, within the memory 404 or within the processor 402 during execution by the computer system 400. The memory 404 and the processor 402 also may include computer-readable media as discussed above.

The present invention contemplates a computer-readable medium that includes instructions 424 or receives and executes instructions 424 responsive to a propagated signal so that a device connected to a network 426 can communicate voice, video, audio, images or any other data over the network 426. Further, the instructions 424 may be transmitted or received over the network 426 via a communication port or interface 420 or using a bus 408. The communication port or interface 420 may be a part of the processor 402 or may be a separate component. The communication port 420 may be created in software or may be a physical connection in hardware. The communication port 420 may be configured to connect with a network 426, external media, the display 410, or any other components in system 400, or combinations thereof. The connection with the network 426 may be a physical connection, such as a wired Ethernet connection or may be established wirelessly as discussed later. Likewise, the additional connections with other components of the system 400 may be physical connections or may be established wirelessly. The network 426 may alternatively be directly connected to the bus 408.

The network 426 may include wired networks, wireless networks, Ethernet AVB networks, or combinations thereof. The wireless network may be a cellular telephone network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20, 802.1Q or WiMax network. Further, the network 426 may be a public network, such as the Internet, a private network, such as an intranet, or combinations thereof, and may utilize a variety of networking protocols now available or later developed including, but not limited to TCP/IP based networking protocols.

In an alternative example, dedicated hardware implementations, such as application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays and other hardware devices, can be constructed to implement various parts of the system 400.

Applications that may include the systems can broadly include a variety of electronic and computer systems. One or more examples described may implement functions using two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with related control and data signals that can be communicated between and through the modules, or as portions of an application-specific integrated circuit. Accordingly, the present system encompasses software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

The system described may be implemented by software programs executable by a computer system. Further, in a non-limited example, implementations can include distributed processing, component/object distributed processing, and parallel processing. Alternatively, virtual computer system processing can be constructed to implement various parts of the system.

The system is not limited to operation with any particular standards and protocols. For example, standards for Internet and other packet switched network transmission (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP/IP, HTML, HTTP) may be used. Such standards are periodically superseded by faster or more efficient equivalents having essentially the same functions. Accordingly, replacement standards and protocols having the same or similar functions as those disclosed are considered equivalents thereof.

Plurality of technical methods for implementing the above conceptual approach has been developed and in the following paragraphs a detailed description about each technical method is provided. It may be noted that apart from the sending referral messages to the referred subscriber on behalf of the referring subscriber, the telephone system may be configured to track the actions taken by the referred subscriber after receiving the referral message. Outcome of such a tracking action can be beneficial utilized to build a profile of the referred subscriber, can be used to provide credits to the referring subscriber or in any other suitable way. The different technical methods described hereinafter are provided only by way of illustration and not meant to restrict the scope of the claims in any manner. The scope of the claims is intended to be restricted only on the basis of the claims and their equivalents.

For the sake of simplicity, a particular caller ring back tone (CRBT) let’s say, a ring tone “XYZ” has been taken as the product / service being referred in the following explanation. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to referring caller ring back tones only. Without being limited, the referral message may pertain to for example, a book or a movie or a game or a utility application (for example a new VAS) or any other product or service as may be provided either by the Operator by a third party merchant via the telephone system. Similarly, in the following explanation, the communication channel has been taken as an interactive voice response (IVR) channel. However, it should be understood that apart from using IVR as the channel of communication, it is possible to use USSD or SMS as the communication channel.

TECHNICAL METHOD OF EXAMPLE 1: EXPLICIT REFERRAL MESSAGE CREATION WITHOUT ASSISTANCE AND DELIVERY
In accordance with the first option, a technical method is provided by which a referring subscriber is able to refer ring tone “XYZ” for use as a caller ring back tone (CRBT) to a referred subscriber. In this approach, the referring subscriber dials a predetermined interactive voice response (IVR) short code. The predetermined IVR short code is allocated to a particular IVR device and hence, an IVR based communication channel is established between the referring subscriber and the IVR device. The IVR device prompts the referring subscriber to enter subscriber identity module number of a referred subscriber (telephone or mobile number of the referred subscriber). The subscriber identity module number of a referred subscriber is taken and stored in a data storage device. Thereafter, the IVR device informs to the referring subscriber of available categories of products/services and prompts the referring subscriber to choose a particular category. Assuming that the user elects CRBT, the IVR device informs or plays the tunes as contained in the CRBT category and prompts the referring subscriber to elect a particular tune. Assuming the referring subscriber elects “XYZ” as the referred ring back tone, a message is automatically created and sent to the referred subscriber (at the subscriber identity module number of the referred subscriber), wherein the message for example can effectively communicate:
Hey ABC (name of referred subscriber), try this “XYZ” CRBT. You will like it – XYZ (name of details of referring subscriber).

Such message can additionally contain details of how to obtain “XYZ” as the CRBT.

The IVR device may provide the referring subscriber an option of terminating the process or an option of repeating the aforesaid process. In case the referring subscriber chooses to repeat the process, the referring subscriber may enter subscriber identity module number of a different referred subscriber or may elect a different choice (which can be within the same category or in a different category) for the same referred subscriber.

In this particular embodiment, the step of automatic creation of the message and transmission of the same to the referred subscriber is performed without taking into consideration the past or the current requirement of the referred subscriber.

TECHNICAL METHOD OF EXAMPLE 2: EXPLICIT REFERRAL MESSAGE CREATION WITH ASSISTANCE AND DELIVERY
In accordance with the second option, a technical method is provided by which a referring subscriber is able to refer ring tone “XYZ” for use as a caller ring back tone (CRBT) to a referred subscriber. In this approach, the referring subscriber dials a predetermined interactive voice response (IVR) short code. The predetermined IVR short code is allocated to a particular IVR device and hence, an IVR based communication channel is established between the referring subscriber and the IVR device. The IVR device prompts the referring subscriber to enter subscriber identity module number of a referred subscriber (telephone or mobile number of the referred subscriber). The subscriber identity module number of a referred subscriber is taken and stored in a data storage device.

Departing from the previous implementation, in the present implementation, the IVR device queries a recommendation device about categories which may be interest to the referred subscriber. The recommendation device is a device which could have monitored the past activities of the referred subscriber and on the basis of the same, built a list of categories which may be interest to the referred subscriber (hereinafter “interested category”). Upon obtaining details of the interested category from the recommendation device, the IVR device informs the same to the referring subscriber and prompts the referring subscriber to choose a particular category from the interested category.

It may be noted that recommendation devices have recently become important components of numerous computer applications, e.g., in the e-commerce space. In particular, such systems enable a receipt of feedback from company's customers. Based on their customer's feedback, the companies can better serve their customers by providing recommendations and suggestion thereto. Because the customers generally appreciate receiving informative and pertinent recommendations and suggestions from the companies that they deal with, such interaction between the customers and companies allow these companies which utilize the recommendation systems to establish and further develop long-lasting personalized relationships with their customers. Research and development of systems and processes which provide recommendations and suggestions to users on a personal basis (e.g., via e-mail, the Web and mobile communication devices) has been significant in the past. For example, a conventional recommendation system and process may provide a particular recommendation of a certain brand of a plasma television to a user based on the user's previous transactions and/or entries of preferences. Also, the users who have previously shown interest in the plasma televisions can be forwarded to a particular brand of the plasma television based on the characteristics of such television. Other exemplary applications of the conventional systems and processes provide, e.g., movies to users, books to customers, etc. These conventional recommendation systems and processes are usually based on known two-dimensional collaborative filtering techniques, content based filtering techniques or a combination of both.

Exemplary collaborative filtering techniques are described, for example, in W. Hill et al., "Recommending and Evaluating Choices in a Virtual Community of Use," Proceedings of CHI-95 Conference, Denver, Colorado, 1995, pp. 194-201 and many more documents. Content-based filtering techniques are described for example in the Breese publication, F. R. J. Mooney et al, "Book Recommending using Text Categorization with Extracted Information," Recommender Systems, Papers from 1998 Workshop, Tech. Report WS- 98-08, AAAI Press, 1998, and M. Pazzani et al., "Syskill & Webert: Identifying Interesting Web Sites," Proceedings of the National Conference on Artificial Intelligence, 1996. Techniques that combine the corraborative filtering and content-based techniques are described, for example, in A. Ansari et al., "Internet Recommendations Systems," Journal of Marketing Research, August 2000, pp. 363-375; M. Balabanovic et al., "Fab: Content- based, Collaborative Recommendation," Communications of the ACM, 40(3):66-72, 1997, and M. Pazzani et al., "A Framework for Collaborative, Content-based and Demographic Filtering," Artificial Intelligence Review, December 1999, pp. 393-408.

The IVR device of the present invention may interact with a recommendation device as may be constructed in accordance with the teachings of the aforesaid the document.

Assuming that CRBT was one of interested categories and the referring subscriber elects CRBT, the IVR device informs or plays the tunes as contained in the CRBT category and prompts the referring subscriber to elect a particular tune. Assuming the referring subscriber elects “XYZ” as the referred ring back tone, a message is automatically created and sent to the referred subscriber (at the subscriber identity module number of the referred subscriber), wherein the message for example can effectively communicate:
Hey ABC (name of referred subscriber), try this “XYZ” CRBT. You will like it – XYZ (name of details of referring subscriber).

Such message can additionally contain details of how to obtain “XYZ” as the CRBT.

The IVR device may provide the referring subscriber an option of terminating the process or an option of repeating the aforesaid process.

While in this embodiment, the referring subscriber is provided some assistance in creating the referral message, the step of transmission of the referral message to the referred subscriber is performed without taking into consideration the current requirement of the referred subscriber. By way of example, the referred subscriber may or may not be interested in obtaining a CRBT at that instance of time.

TECHNICAL METHOD OF EXAMPLE 3: IMPLICIT REFERRAL MESSAGE CREATION AND DELIVERY
In accordance with the third option, a technical method is provided by which a referring subscriber is able to refer ring tone “XYZ” for use as a caller ring back tone (CRBT) to a referred subscriber set. In this approach, the referring subscriber dials a predetermined interactive voice response (IVR) short code. The predetermined IVR short code is allocated to a particular IVR device and hence, an IVR based communication channel is established between the referring subscriber and the IVR device. The IVR device prompts the referring subscriber to enter subscriber identity module number set, wherein the set may comprise of telephone or mobile number of one or more referred subscribers. The subscriber identity module number set is taken and stored in a data storage device and the session is terminated.

Contrary to the previous approaches, in this approach, the referring subscriber is not required to create explicit referral messages. In this approach, the telephone system monitors the searches and purchases/subscriptions of the referring subscriber. By way of example, if the referring subscriber performs searches for CRBT and purchases/subscribes “XYZ” ring tone, the telephone system will monitor the same and treats the same as an instance (starting point) for creating a referral message and sending the referral message to all members of the subscriber identity module number set (i.e. referred subscribers), wherein the message for example can effectively communicate:
Hey ABC (name of referred subscriber), try this “XYZ” CRBT. You will like it – XYZ (name of details of referring subscriber).

Such message can additionally contain details of how to obtain “XYZ” as the CRBT.

In this particular embodiment, the step of automatic creation of the message and transmission of the same to the referred subscriber is performed without taking into consideration the past or the current requirement of the referred subscriber.

TECHNICAL METHOD OF EXAMPLE 4: IMPLICIT REFERRAL MESSAGE CREATION AND TARGETED DELIVERY
In accordance with the forth option, a technical method is provided by which a referring subscriber is able to refer ring tone “XYZ” for use as a caller ring back tone (CRBT) to a referred subscriber. In this approach, the referring subscriber dials a predetermined interactive voice response (IVR) short code. The predetermined IVR short code is allocated to a particular IVR device and hence, an IVR based communication channel is established between the referring subscriber and the IVR device. The IVR device prompts the referring subscriber to enter subscriber identity module number set, wherein the set may comprise of telephone or mobile number of one or more referred subscribers. The subscriber identity module number set is taken and stored in a data storage device and the session is terminated.

In this approach also the referring subscriber is not required to create explicit referral messages. In this approach, the telephone system monitors the searches and purchases/subscriptions of the referring subscriber. By way of example, if the referring subscriber performs searches for CRBT and purchases/subscribes “XYZ” ring tone, the telephone system will monitor the same and treats the same as an instance (starting point) for creating a referral message, wherein the referral message for example can effectively communicate:
Hey ABC (name of referred subscriber), try this “XYZ” CRBT. You will like it – XYZ (name of details of referring subscriber).

However, contrary to the approach described in Technical Method 3, the IVR device performs a filtering operation prior to sending the referral message. By way of example, the IVR system queries a recommendation device about categories which may be interest to each referred subscriber as contained in the referred subscriber set. Upon receiving details of the interested categories for each referred subscriber from the recommendation device, the IVR device performs the filtering. During the filtering process, the category of the product as purchased by the referring subscriber is compared with the interested categories of referred subscriber and if a match is found, the referral message is transmitted to the particular referred subscriber. If however, a match is not found, the referral message is NOT transmitted to that particular referred subscriber. Such a process is iteratively followed for all referred subscribers in the referred subscriber set.

While in this embodiment, the referral message is automatically created and filtered on the basis of the preferences of the referred subscriber, the method may still not take into consideration the current requirement of the referred subscriber. By way of example, the referred subscriber may or may not be interested in obtaining a CRBT at that instance of time.

TECHNICAL METHOD OF EXAMPLE 5: EXPLICIT REFERRAL MESSAGE CREATION AND DELAYED DELIVERY
In accordance with the fifth option, a technical method is provided by which a referring subscriber is able to refer ring tone “XYZ” for use as a caller ring back tone (CRBT) to a referred subscriber. In this approach, the referring subscriber dials a predetermined interactive voice response (IVR) short code. The predetermined IVR short code is allocated to a particular IVR device and hence, an IVR based communication channel is established between the referring subscriber and the IVR device. The IVR device prompts the referring subscriber to enter subscriber identity module number set corresponding to referred subscriber set. The subscriber identity module number set can comprise one or more entries and hence, the referred subscriber set can comprise of one or more referred subscribers. The subscriber identity module number set is taken and stored on a temporary basis in a data storage device as temporary referred subscriber set and the referring subscriber is provided with an option to terminate the session.

In case, the referring subscriber wishes to continue with the session, the IVR device informs to the referring subscriber of available categories of products/services and prompts the referring subscriber to choose a particular category and a particular product within the selected category. In case the referring subscriber opts to terminate the session, the IVR device informs to the referring subscriber of available categories of products/services and prompts the referring subscriber to choose a particular category and a particular product within the selected category during a subsequent interaction with the referring subscriber.

Assuming that the user elects CRBT, the IVR device informs or plays the tunes as contained in the CRBT category and prompts the referring subscriber to elect a particular tune. Assuming the referring subscriber elects “XYZ” as the referred ring back tone, the choice is recorded in the data storage device.

During the subsequent interactions with the referring subscriber, the IVR device may provide the referring subscriber an option of adding new subscriber identity module number to the previously fed details. In each interaction with referring subscriber, the IVR system may provide the referring subscriber to choose multiple products/services (which can be within the same category or in a different category).

Separately, the IVR device makes Out Bound Dialler to each subscriber of the temporary referred subscriber set and seeks from the respective referred subscriber confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set.

The telephony system thereafter monitors the searches and purchases/subscriptions by the referred subscribers who are forming part of the permanent referred subscriber set. By way of example, if the a particular referred subscriber forming part of the permanent referred subscriber set performs searches for CRBT or approaches a merchant providing CRBT via the telephone system, the telephone system will treat the same as an instance (starting point) for creating a referral message and sending the referral message to that particular referred subscriber, wherein the message for example can effectively communicate:
Hey ABC (name of referred subscriber), try this “XYZ” CRBT. You will like it – XYZ (name of details of referring subscriber).

Such message can additionally contain details of how to obtain “XYZ” as the CRBT.

To more clearly understand the manner of functioning of the method described above, let’s consider a scenario wherein the referring subscriber enters subscriber identity module numbers of Subscriber A, Subscriber B and Subscriber C to the IVR device as referred subscriber set. The details of Subscribers A, B and C as received is stored on a temporary basis and in the form of a temporary subscriber set.

The IVR device makes Out Bound Dialler to each subscriber of the temporary referred subscriber set and seeks from the respective referred subscriber confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set. Assuming that once Subscribers A and B provide their consent, only Subscribers A and B are included in the permanent referred subscriber set corresponding to the referring subscriber.

The IVR device receives the choice of the CRBT (i.e. product/service) from the referring subscriber, in a manner as described above and stores the same in the data storage device.

The telephony system thereafter monitors the searches and purchases/subscriptions by Subscriber A and Subscriber B. By way of example, if Subscriber A performs search for CRBT or approaches a merchant providing CRBT via the telephone system, the telephone system will treat the same as an instance (starting point) for creating a referral message and sending the referral message to Subscriber A. At this point of time the system only sends the message to Subscriber A and not to Subscriber B. Only when Subscriber B performs a search for CRBT or approaches a merchant providing CRBT via the telephone system, the telephone system will send the referral message to Subscriber B. If Subscriber B performs a search for let’s say a product which falls in a category substantially different from that of CRBT (let’s say book), the referral message will not be transmitted to Subscriber B (despite the fact that the system has the referral message stored with it).

TECHNICAL METHOD OF EXAMPLE 6: EXPLICIT REFERRAL MESSAGE CREATION AND DELAYED TARGETED DELIVERY
In accordance with the sixth option, a technical method is provided by which a referring subscriber is able to refer ring tone “XYZ” for use as a caller ring back tone (CRBT) to a referred subscriber. In this approach, the referring subscriber dials a predetermined interactive voice response (IVR) short code. The predetermined IVR short code is allocated to a particular IVR device and hence, an IVR based communication channel is established between the referring subscriber and the IVR device. The IVR device prompts the referring subscriber to enter subscriber identity module number set corresponding to referred subscriber set. The subscriber identity module number set can comprise one or more entries and hence, the referred subscriber set can comprise of one or more referred subscribers. The subscriber identity module number set is taken and stored on a temporary basis in a data storage device as temporary referred subscriber set and the referring subscriber is provided with an option to terminate the session.

In case, the referring subscriber wishes to continue with the session, the IVR device informs to the referring subscriber of available categories of products/services and prompts the referring subscriber to choose a particular category and a particular product within the selected category. In case the referring subscriber opts to terminate the session, the IVR device informs to the referring subscriber of available categories of products/services and prompts the referring subscriber to choose a particular category and a particular product within the selected category during a subsequent interaction with the referring subscriber.

Assuming that the user elects CRBT, the IVR device informs or plays the tunes as contained in the CRBT category and prompts the referring subscriber to elect a particular tune. Assuming the referring subscriber elects “XYZ” as the referred ring back tone, the choice is recorded in the data storage device.

While it can be said that till this point of time the method functions in a manner similar to that described in Technical Method 5, at this point of time, the IVR device will prompt the referring subscriber to indicate as to which particular referred subscriber, the selected ring back tone will have to be referred. The data as provided by the referring subscriber is received by the IVR device and stored in the data storage device.

Separately, the IVR device makes Out Bound Dialler to each subscriber of the temporary referred subscriber set and seeks from the respective referred subscriber confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set.

The telephony system thereafter monitors the searches and purchases/subscriptions by the referred subscribers who are forming part of the permanent referred subscriber set. By way of example, if a particular referred subscriber forming part of the permanent referred subscriber set performs searches for CRBT or approaches a merchant providing CRBT via the telephone system and if a CRBT related referral message is stored in the data storage device for that particular referred subscriber, the telephone system will treat the same as an instance (starting point) for creating a referral message and sending the referral message to that particular referred subscriber, wherein the message for example can effectively communicate:
Hey ABC (name of referred subscriber), try this “XYZ” CRBT. You will like it – XYZ (name of details of referring subscriber).

Such message can additionally contain details of how to obtain “XYZ” as the CRBT.

Thus, in this particular embodiment, at the time of choosing the product/service to be referred (or subsequently thereafter), the referring subscriber will have the opportunity to personalize the referral message. For example, if Subscribers A and B are in the permanent referred subscriber set of the referring subscriber, the referring subscriber can indicate that CRBT related referral message will have to be provided only to Subscriber A and NOT to Subscriber B. In this scenario, even if Subscriber B performs a CRBT related search, a referral message will not be sent by the IVR system to Subscriber B on behalf of the referring subscriber.

TECHNICAL METHOD OF EXAMPLE 7: EXPLICIT REFERRAL MESSAGE CREATION WITH ASSISTANCE AND DELAYED TARGETED DELIVERY
As an optional continuation to the sixth option, in some instances, the referring subscriber may wish to personalize the referral message but may not be aware of the preferences for a particular referred subscriber.

In such a scenario, the referring subscriber may seek recommendation from the IVR device, and wherein the IVR device may in turn query a recommendation device about categories which may be interest to the referred subscriber. Upon obtaining details of the interested category from the recommendation device, the IVR device informs the same to the referring subscriber and prompts the referring subscriber to choose a particular category from the interested category.

TECHNICAL METHOD OF EXAMPLE 8: IMPLICIT REFERRAL MESSAGE CREATION AND DELAYED TARGETED DELIVERY
In accordance with the fifth option, a technical method is provided by which a referring subscriber is able to refer ring tone “XYZ” for use as a caller ring back tone (CRBT) to a referred subscriber. In this approach, the referring subscriber dials a predetermined interactive voice response (IVR) short code. The predetermined IVR short code is allocated to a particular IVR device and hence, an IVR based communication channel is established between the referring subscriber and the IVR device. The IVR device prompts the referring subscriber to enter subscriber identity module number set corresponding to referred subscriber set. The subscriber identity module number set can comprise one or more entries and hence, the referred subscriber set can comprise of one or more referred subscribers. The subscriber identity module number set is taken and stored on a temporary basis in a data storage device as temporary referred subscriber set and the referring subscriber is provided with an option to terminate the session.

In this approach also the referring subscriber is not required to create explicit referral messages. In this approach, the telephone system monitors the searches and purchases/subscriptions of the referring subscriber. By way of example, if the referring subscriber performs searches for CRBT and purchases/subscribes “XYZ” ring tone, the telephone system will monitor the same and treats the same as a choice made by the referring subscriber. Thereafter, from the choice thus made by the referring subscriber, the category is automatically determined and the category and the choice is stored in a data storage device.

Separately, the IVR device makes Out Bound Dialler to each subscriber of the temporary referred subscriber set and seeks from the respective referred subscriber confirmation for their inclusion in a permanent referred subscriber set.

The telephony system thereafter monitors the searches and purchases/subscriptions by the referred subscribers who are forming part of the permanent referred subscriber set. By way of example, if a particular referred subscriber forming part of the permanent referred subscriber set performs searches for CRBT or approaches a merchant providing CRBT via the telephone system the telephone system will treat the same as an instance (starting point) for creating a referral message.

Upon detecting a possible instance, the IVR device automatically queries the data storage device for an entry corresponding to the category and a choice within the category. If a match is found, a referral message created and transmitted to the particular referred subscriber. If however, a match is not found, the referral message is NOT transmitted to that particular referred subscriber.

It has been realised that as compared to Technical Methods 1 to 4, Technical Methods 5 to 8 provide for utilization of overall resources of the system in the best manner, without causing initial burden on the system.

It is also pertinent to mention here that in case the referral message is sent in the form of SMS, the system is preferably configured to indicate/display the MSISDN number of the referring subscriber as the originating number (as compared to indicating the originator as the system). Similarly, if the referral message is in the form of an OBD-IVR, the system is preferably configured to indicate/display the MSISDN number of the referring subscriber as the originating number. On the other hand, if the referral message is being sent through USSD, the content of the referral message will modulated accordingly to give substantially the same impression.

While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

The drawings and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any component(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or component of any or all the claims.